Rock, punk, and metal artists are renowned for their bold approaches to promoting their music. Recently, a punk band has taken this to an extraordinary level by producing a vinyl single that is prohibited from sale in eight states across the United States. This daring move has sparked considerable interest and discussion among fans and music enthusiasts alike.

The band at the center of this controversy is none other than The Ataris, who hail from Indiana and gained fame for their iconic cover of Don Henley‘s “The Boys of Summer.” Their unique style and heartfelt lyrics have made them a significant force in the punk rock scene.

In May 2025, The Ataris made a triumphant return with “Car Song,” marking their first new material release in 15 years. The song was accompanied by a captivating music video inspired by the acclaimed series Breaking Bad (you can watch it below), along with a limited edition 7-inch single that intriguingly incorporated the ashes of lead singer Kris Roe‘s late father, William Charles Roe, mixed directly into the vinyl.

Moreover, a portion of the proceeds from the sales of the “Car Song” 7-inch single were generously donated to Shatterproof, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating addiction. This philanthropic effort is particularly poignant, as Roe’s father passed away in 2014 as a result of complications related to alcoholism. Despite the unique and controversial nature of the product, it sold out rapidly, demonstrating the overwhelming support from fans, even in states where its sale is illegal.

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Understanding the Legal Restrictions Surrounding The Ataris’ ‘Car Song’ Vinyl Release

The sales page for the “Car Song” vinyl includes an important notice explaining that the sale of human remains is prohibited in certain regions of the United States. The note clarifies that while it is legal to sell human remains in 42 states, there are eight states where this practice is illegal.

The eight states where the sale of this unique vinyl is restricted include Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. The notification warns customers against ordering the William Charles Roe Memorial Ashes Variant if their delivery address falls within these boundaries. The company retains the authority to cancel orders destined for these states, emphasizing the legal limitations that dictate their operations. While it is unfortunate that fans in these states are unable to receive this special variant, adherence to state laws is paramount.

Despite these legal hurdles, the heartfelt motivation behind the “Car Song” vinyl single remains at the forefront of this story. It showcases the profound connection between music and personal legacy, particularly in how Roe honors his father’s memory.

“I’ve always been so lucky to have my dad’s unwavering support for The Ataris,” Roe shared in a press release at the time of the release. “He wasn’t just a fan — he was a fixture of our community. He would often interact with fans on the band’s message board, film live sets, and share them with everyone—everyone knew him. He was a huge part of the band’s journey. When I read about a service that would press a loved one’s ashes into vinyl, it instantly hit me. What better way to honor my dad than making him a permanent part of the music he always loved? It felt like the most meaningful tribute I could give him.”

Experience the Emotional Depth of the Ataris’ ‘Car Song’ Music Video